How citizens are looking ahead to 2025: worries, fear and a little hope

Result

The majority of Germans are worried about the coming twelve months. 63 per cent of the population express fears and uncertainties, while only 37 per cent are optimistic about the future. There are differences between the various population groups: Women are more pessimistic about the future than men (+6 percentage points). The difference in income is particularly striking: Low earners are more likely to express concerns than higher earners (+9 percentage points). On the other hand, the generations are converging. While 57% of those under 30 are sceptical about the future, this figure is 64% for the over 55s. This convergence indicates that the concerns of young and old are becoming increasingly similar.

Reasons

The population's perception reflects the many challenges of the present. Geopolitical tensions, such as the war in Ukraine, and global problems such as climate change are contributing to a general feeling of uncertainty. Economic burdens - including inflation, the rising cost of living and job concerns - are affecting lower-income households in particular, which already have less financial room for manoeuvre.

Women are often more sensitive to social and family uncertainties. Issues such as childcare, pension provision and gender equality have a greater impact on their perceptions than those of many men. Younger generations, on the other hand, are looking to a future characterised by technological upheaval and ecological challenges. The responsibility of finding solutions to these global problems is perceived as a burden. Older people, on the other hand, are more likely to feel burdened by uncertainties in the areas of pensions and the healthcare system.

Forecast

The tense social mood is likely to persist as long as no clear progress is made on the key challenges. However, political measures, for example to combat inflation and social inequality, could strengthen confidence in a better future. Lower-income households would particularly benefit from targeted support programmes, while young people could be relieved by initiatives in education and innovation.

In the long term, how politics and society react to crises will be crucial. Transparent communication about successes in the areas of climate protection, education or social security could send out positive signals. At the same time, the growing awareness of collaborative solutions offers an opportunity to reduce fears and focus on a positive future. The willingness of many citizens to actively participate in change is an encouraging sign for the coming years.